Saint Lucia concluded their campaign in the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) Under-23 Men’s Championship in fourth place, marking a one-position improvement from their 2023 performance. Despite a promising start with two consecutive victories, the team faced a challenging streak, losing their next four matches. The tournament, held at the YMCA in St John’s, Antigua & Barbuda, wrapped up on Sunday, November 16. Dominica emerged as the champions, defeating hosts Antigua & Barbuda 3-1 in a thrilling final (25-15, 20-25, 25-17, 25-19). Meanwhile, Grenada secured the bronze medal after a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Saint Lucia in the third-place playoff (21-25, 25-16, 23-25, 25-14, 15-12). This marked a significant improvement for Saint Lucia, who had previously suffered a 3-0 defeat to Grenada in the preliminary rounds. Although the team missed out on a podium finish, individual players shone brightly. Captain Daniel Mayers-James was recognized as the tournament’s best scorer, while Peter Emmanuel earned the title of best first middle blocker. With a young squad featuring players as young as 14 and 15, Saint Lucia remains optimistic about their prospects in the next edition of the competition in 2027, especially after notable victories over defending champions St Vincent & the Grenadines and Anguilla.
标签： Saint Lucia
圣卢西亚
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Pierre Rallies SLP for Final Push, Warns of ‘Nastiest Politics’ Ahead
In a vibrant display of political fervor and spiritual unity, the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) hosted its National Gospel Concert last night at the Vieux Fort Recreation Park. With the general election just two weeks away, the event served as both a rallying cry for supporters and a platform to celebrate recent achievements, including the handover of the St Jude Hospital. SLP candidates shared the stage with local gospel artists, delivering impassioned speeches that praised party leader Philip J. Pierre and warned of intensified political rhetoric in the coming days. Lisa Jawahir, the SLP candidate for Castries South-East, emphasized the significance of the hospital handover, stating, ‘This occasion is bigger than politics,’ while expressing her inspiration drawn from Pierre’s leadership and the resilience of the nation. Pierre himself cautioned supporters about the ‘nastiest politics’ expected from the opposition United Workers Party (UWP), which was simultaneously holding its own rally. He urged SLP candidates to intensify their campaign efforts and highlighted key policies, such as the ‘one university graduate per household’ initiative and free preschool education. The SLP is set to unveil its full manifesto on November 25, ahead of the December 1 election.
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Babonneau, Dennery complete U13 Grassroots semis lineup
The Saint Lucia National Cricket Association/Laborie Cooperative Credit Union Under-13 Grassroots Tournament has reached its semifinal stage, with Dennery, Babonneau, Soufriere, and Desruisseaux securing their spots after a thrilling quarterfinal weekend. The matches, held on Saturday, November 15, at the Dennery Playing Field, showcased exceptional performances and intense competition. Dennery triumphed over Laborie, while Babonneau outplayed Choiseul, setting the stage for an exciting semifinal lineup. Dennery faced a previously unbeaten Laborie team, limiting them to 85-8 and confidently chasing the target with 86-4 in just 10 overs. Kivaniel Evans starred for Dennery, taking 2-9 and top-scoring with nine runs. Meanwhile, Babonneau posted 88-5 against Choiseul, with nine-year-old Kaylani William emerging as the standout player, scoring 21 runs and taking 3-19 to secure victory. The semifinals, hosted by Soufriere on November 29, promise to deliver more cricketing excitement.
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Seven Inducted into Cricket’s HPC for Year Three
The Saint Lucia Cricket High Performance Centre (SLCHPC) has unveiled its third cohort of promising cricketers, marking a significant step in nurturing the island’s sporting talent. The announcement was made on November 15 during an induction ceremony held at the William Jefferson Clinton Ballroom, Sandals Grande Saint Lucian Spa & Beach Resort. The event celebrated the inclusion of seven new players, including former Saint Lucia Under-17 captain Khan Elcock, Windward Islands youth legspinner Cody Fontenelle, and Mon Repos batter Cody Lesmond. Other inductees are Sacchin Josh Cepal, Kethan Charlemagne, Ephron Charles, and the sole female player, Kanicsher Auguste. The group will undergo intensive training at Mindoo Phillip Park under the guidance of head coach John Eugene and SLCHPC chairman Craig Emmanuel. The SLCHPC, a collaborative effort between the Government of Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Youth Development & Sports and the Saint Lucia National Cricket Association, is partially funded by the National Lotteries Authority. Now in its third year, the initiative continues to provide a dedicated platform for young cricketers aspiring to excel at regional and international levels. The induction ceremony also honored the 2024 class, recognizing standout performers such as Shawnil Edward (most disciplined), Selena Ross (most dedicated), Royce Paul (most improved), Bolton Sayers (most outstanding), and Theo Edward (coach’s award). The SLCHPC has already produced notable graduates, including West Indies players Ackeem Auguste, Qiana Joseph, Zaida James, and Nerissa Crafton, as well as West Indies Under-19 stars Tarrique Edward and Selena Ross.
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West Indies show grit, but Kiwis clinch ODI opener
In a nail-biting encounter on November 15, the West Indies narrowly missed victory against New Zealand, succumbing to a seven-run defeat in the first of three One Day Internationals (ODIs) held in Christchurch. The match marked the international debut of Shamar Springer, adding a fresh dynamic to the Windies’ lineup. Despite a valiant effort, the Caribbean side couldn’t overcome the BlackCaps’ resilience, setting the stage for an intense series. West Indian captain Shai Hope won the toss and opted to bowl, capitalizing on favorable conditions. Matthew Forde made an immediate impact, dismissing Rachin Ravindra and Will Young in consecutive deliveries. However, New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell stole the spotlight with a masterful century, scoring 119 runs and anchoring his team’s innings. Jayden Seales emerged as a key figure for the Windies, claiming three wickets for 41 runs and restricting the hosts to under 300. The West Indies’ chase began cautiously, with early wickets forcing a defensive approach. Sherfane Rutherford’s return to form, with a solid 55 runs, provided hope, while Romario Shepherd’s explosive 38 off 24 deliveries nearly turned the tide. Yet, the BlackCaps held their nerve in the final over, securing a narrow victory. The Windies now face a must-win situation in the second ODI on November 18 to keep the series alive.
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Anse La Raye Crowned Tier 2 Champions in Dominant Final
Anse La Raye emerged victorious in the Saint Lucia Semi-Professional Super League (Tier 2) after a commanding 3-0 win over Vieux Fort North in the final. The match, held at the Francis Baba Lastic Grounds in Gros Islet on November 15, showcased Anse La Raye’s dominance throughout the tournament. Having topped the league stage with an impressive goal difference of 16, they secured their spot in the final by defeating Laborie 1-0 in the semifinals. Vieux Fort North, who finished third in their group, earned their place in the championship match by overcoming the Saint Lucia National Under-20 team. The game, initially scheduled for November 8 at the Soufriere Mini Stadium, was postponed due to adverse weather conditions. Anse La Raye took an early lead in the 15th minute with a stunning strike from Hanson Frederick outside the box. The second half saw Sagat Ferdinand extend their lead with a remarkable goal in the 64th minute, followed by a penalty from captain Nangee Philip, sealing their triumph. A red card for Vieux Fort North’s Steve Darcheville in the 86th minute compounded their struggles. Post-match, a jubilant Philip expressed his elation, dedicating the victory to his home village and thanking the loyal supporters for their unwavering encouragement. The team’s promotion to the Premier League marks a significant milestone in their journey.
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Samuel Anchors VFCSS to nail-biting Schools Netball Win
In a thrilling showdown at the Beausejour Gymnasium, Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary School (VFCSS) clinched a narrow 31–30 victory over Micoud Secondary in the Under-19 Schools’ Netball Tournament final. The match, marked by intense competition and strategic brilliance, was ultimately decided by the defensive prowess of Hayla Samuel, who was named both MVP and best defender of the final. Samuel, alongside captain Mya King, formed an impenetrable backline that stifled Micoud’s shooters, despite a late surge from the East Coast team. VFCSS led 7–5 after the first quarter and 13–11 at halftime, but it was in the third quarter that they gained significant momentum, stretching their lead to 24–19. Micoud fought back valiantly in the final period, outscoring VFCSS 11–7, but fell just one goal short of tying the game. Deriscia Mitchell and Neriah Charlery were instrumental for VFCSS, combining for 11 goals on 13 attempts in the third quarter. Mitchell finished with 22 goals from 26 attempts, while Charlery added 9 from 14. For Micoud, Mekeige Joseph and Clarise Nervais contributed 18/29 and 12/20 goals, respectively, under relentless defensive pressure. Charlery, aged just 13, was named best attacking player of the tournament, adding to VFCSS’s haul of three individual awards. Micoud’s Kiehanna St Juste earned best centre court honours, while Soufriere’s Kelly Monlouis claimed the most accurate shooter award. Samuel, a dual-sport athlete who also represents Saint Lucia in football, was one of four players in the final who had competed at the Jean Pierre Caribbean Youth Netball Tournament earlier this year.
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Ralph Gonsalves backs Pierre ahead of election
As he gears up for his own electoral battle in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has extended a public endorsement to Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre and the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) in the lead-up to their December 1 general election. In a recent interview with SVG TV, Gonsalves expressed his unwavering support for Pierre and the SLP, referring to them as a “sister party.” He emphasized the solidarity between their respective Labour movements, underscoring the deep political alliance shared by the two leaders. Gonsalves, confident in his Unity Labour Party’s prospects for re-election, also revealed plans to travel to Castries, Saint Lucia, to join Pierre during the final stages of the campaign. “At the invitation of Philip Pierre, I will be in Saint Lucia at least for the final rally,” he stated. “I have to be there with my Labour comrade.” This endorsement not only reinforces the camaraderie between Gonsalves and Pierre but also highlights the interconnectedness of Labour parties across the Caribbean region.
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The battle for Castries South
On December 1, voters in Castries South, Saint Lucia, will cast their ballots in a pivotal election that will shape the constituency’s future for the next five years. The contest features two contrasting candidates: Dr. Ernest Hilaire, a seasoned politician and Deputy Prime Minister, and Tommy Descartes, a first-time candidate with a technocratic background. The election is not just a battle between party loyalties but also a clash of visions for a district that has become a symbol of national pride and political ambition. Castries South, a constituency within Saint Lucia’s capital, has garnered international attention since Julien Alfred, a native of Ciceron, won the country’s first Olympic gold medal. The area boasts significant infrastructure, including the Dr. Winston C.V. Parris Medical Complex, Owen King European Union Hospital, and Tapion Hospital. It also includes Bananes Bay, a politically sensitive zone near Tapion and Hospital Road, which is expected to be impacted by the Global Port Holding redevelopment of Port Castries. Dr. Ernest Hilaire, representing the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP), is seeking a third term. A graduate of the University of the West Indies, Cambridge University, and the London School of Economics, Hilaire has held numerous high-profile roles, including Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth and Sports, CEO of Saint Lucia’s ICC Cricket World Cup operations, and Chief Executive Officer of the West Indies Cricket Board. His campaign emphasizes legislative achievements and resilience during his tenure, particularly during his time in opposition. Hilaire highlights the Tourism Development Act as a key accomplishment, which he claims has incentivized local participation in the tourism industry. In contrast, Tommy Descartes, representing the United Workers Party (UWP), is a first-time candidate with a background in economics. A graduate of the University of the West Indies and the University of Nottingham, Descartes has worked with the Caribbean Development Bank, Saint Lucia’s Department of Economic Planning, and the Ministry of Equity. Descartes positions himself as a fresh, relatable alternative, focusing on youth empowerment and a ten-year development plan that includes the creation of a Youth and Sports Academy. The election will hinge on which candidate can best address pressing issues such as employment generation, infrastructure upgrades, and sports and social development initiatives. Voters will ultimately decide whether to continue with Hilaire’s experienced leadership or embrace Descartes’ new vision for Castries South.
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‘Anguish has ended’: St Jude Hospital handed over to Government
After years of delays and public scrutiny, the Government officially received the reconstructed St Jude Hospital on Sunday, marking a significant milestone in the facility’s journey toward full operational readiness. Although the hospital is not yet prepared to admit patients, the handover ceremony symbolized the completion of extensive reconstruction efforts and the commencement of the final phase of preparation. The event was attended by government officials, hospital staff, contractors, and community supporters, underscoring the collaborative effort behind the project. Paul Hilaire, Permanent Secretary in the Department of Economic Development, highlighted the hospital’s advanced features, including modern diagnostic capabilities, energy-efficient systems, and enhanced clinical workflows, designed to serve future generations. Hilaire emphasized that the handover signifies the start of critical tasks such as commissioning, staffing, and regulatory alignment to ensure a safe and efficient opening. Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre reiterated that the reconstruction was guided by technical expertise rather than political considerations, addressing public skepticism and the challenges faced over the years. The hospital’s staff had operated from the George Odlum Stadium for 15 years following a fire that destroyed the original facility. Outgoing Vieux Fort South MP Kenny Anthony expressed relief, stating that the project’s completion marks the end of a long period of uncertainty and the beginning of a more confident future.